Mirziyoyev visits Imam Bukhari Mausoleum

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev travelled to Samarkand Region today, 25 November, to review the progress of ongoing socio-economic reforms and outline upcoming tasks together with local officials. This was reported by the presidential press service.

As is customary, the head of state began his visit to Samarkand by visiting the Imam Bukhari Mausoleum. Verses from the Quran were recited and prayers were offered.

The complex, built on the initiative of the President, stands on a 45-hectare site and includes a large mausoleum, a mosque with a capacity of 10,000 worshippers, an administration building, a museum, and entrance and exit pavilions. The four minarets, each 75 metres high, add grandeur to the site.

The complex was designed not only as a place of pilgrimage but also as a centre of knowledge, education and spiritual reflection. In recognition of Imam Bukhari’s great scholarly legacy, an innovative museum has been established within the complex. It showcases the life, scientific contributions and impact of Imam Bukhari – revered in the Islamic world as the “Sultan of Hadith Scholars” – and serves as an inspiring example, especially for young visitors.

Previously, the site could serve 12,000 pilgrims per day. It now has the capacity to receive up to 65,000 visitors, providing services that meet international standards.

The territory also hosts the Imam Bukhari International Research Centre and a School of Hadith Studies.

Around 570 billion soums have been allocated for the development of the surrounding area, including the construction of hotels and service facilities. This includes one four-star hotel, two three-star hotels and 22 family guest houses. All facilities have been connected to modern utilities and the area has been landscaped. By 2026, additional landscaping and the creation of parking areas are planned.

The head of state emphasised that the Imam Bukhari pilgrimage site is a vivid symbol of the spiritual heritage and creative potential of the Uzbek people. He instructed responsible officials to ensure that the final landscaping and improvement works currently underway are completed on time and to a high standard.